SOME BY MI - Retinol Intense Trial Kit

SOME BY MI Retinol Intense Trial Kit is a two-piece starter set with a retinol serum and an eye cream — it lets you test retinol on your skin before committing to full sizes, with bakuchiol and panthenol to buffer irritation.

SOME BY MI Retinol Intense Trial Kit at a glance

Why a trial kit before going full-size

Retinol is one of the most effective ingredients for improving skin texture and firmness, but it is also one of the most common causes of irritation when introduced incorrectly. Flaking, redness and dryness (sometimes called "retinol uglies") are normal adjustment reactions that last a few weeks — but they can be discouraging if you have already paid for a full-size product.

This trial kit gives you enough of both the serum and eye cream to test your skin's tolerance over two to three weeks. If your skin adjusts well, you can upgrade to the full-size versions with confidence.

The formula combines three approaches: retinol and retinal (retinaldehyde, a retinoid that is one conversion step closer to the active form retinoic acid than retinol) for proven efficacy, bakuchiol (a plant-derived compound that has shown similar — though more modest — benefits to retinol in studies, with less irritation potential), and panthenol to soothe and repair any irritation that does occur.

How to use it

1. Start in the evening only. Apply a small amount of the serum to the face after cleansing.
2. Gently pat the eye cream around the orbital bone, from inner corner outward.
3. For the first two weeks, use every other evening. Increase to nightly if your skin tolerates it.
4. Always follow with moisturiser to buffer potential dryness.
5. Always use sunscreen the next morning — retinoids increase UV sensitivity.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between retinol and retinal?

Both are retinoids (vitamin A derivatives). Retinol must be converted twice in the skin to reach the active form (retinoic acid), while retinal (retinaldehyde) needs only one conversion step — making it potentially more effective at the same concentration, though also slightly more potent.

Is bakuchiol a retinoid?

No. Bakuchiol is a plant-derived compound (from the babchi plant) that has shown some retinol-like effects in studies — improved texture and firmness — but it works through a different mechanism. It is not a vitamin A derivative. Its main advantage is lower irritation potential.

Can I use this if I have sensitive skin?

The panthenol and bakuchiol in the formula are included specifically to reduce irritation. Start with every other night and see how your skin responds. If you experience persistent redness or peeling beyond the first two weeks, reduce frequency or stop.

Can I use retinol during pregnancy?

Retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This includes retinol and retinal. Consult your doctor before using any retinoid product if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How long will this trial kit last?

At every-other-night use, about two to three weeks — enough to gauge your skin's tolerance before investing in full sizes.

Can I use this with the AHA BHA PHA Miracle Toner?

Yes, but not at the same time. Use the acid toner in the morning and retinol in the evening, or alternate nights. Using both in the same routine can over-exfoliate and damage your barrier.

Buying SOME BY MI in Kuwait

EmartGCC supplies 100% original SOME BY MI with free standard home delivery across Kuwait, usually next day. Areas beyond Fahaheel and Jahra carry a 3 KD delivery surcharge. Cash on delivery is available, and unopened items can be returned within 14 days.